Masik Shivratri: The Holy Day For Lord Shiva Devotees

Shivratri comes every month to help you fetch the blessings of Shiva-Shakti. Today, January 29, 2014, is the glorious day when heaven can hear your call. Read this article to know more about this monthly occasion, which can change your life...

Masik Shivratri falls every month on the Chaturdashi Tithi during Krishna Paksha. On this day, devotees worship Lord Shiva by performing rituals and observing fast. Among all the Masik (monthly) Shivratri days of the year, Mahashivratri is the most powerful and holiest. Mahashivratri which will be celebrated on February 27, 2014.

The origin of Mahashivratri goes back to the ancient times when a pot filled with poison emerged out of the ocean. With the potential to destroy the universe, it scared all the gods and demons. Out of fear, they asked Lord Shiva to protect the world from the deadly poison. To help the world, Lord Shiva quaffed the poison, which turned the appearance of his throat to blue; thus, fetching him the name ‘Neelkantha’. So, from that day onwards, devotees are worshipping the Lord who saved their lives from total destruction.

Masik Shivaratri Puja Vidhi

Pujas and rituals of Masik Shivaratri start with taking a holy bath in any of the holy water body. This day is a grand occasion for the people who reside close to the holy river Ganga. Holy bath is followed by worshipping Surya Devta (Sun God), Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Some devotees visit Shiva temple to perform the rituals. Now, let’s know more about Mahashivrathri.

Mahashivratri Puja According To Shiva Purana

According to the Puja Vidhi described in Shiva Purana, the devotees or the priest cleans the Shiva Linga with milk, ghee (purified butter), water, honey, yogurt and sugar after every three hours, throughout the day and night. Vermilion paste (Sindoor) is also applied on the Shiva Linga. Once the Shiva Linga is washed, Bael leaves (three leaves together) are placed on it and Ber or jujube fruit is offered for the fulfilment of wishes and prosperous life. Flowers and flower garlands are also used to decorate the Shiva Linga. Incense sticks and wick lamps (Diya) is lit. The Mantra ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ is chanted and bells are rung to honor the deity.

The Six Vital Elements Of Shivratri Puja

Milk: purifies the soul and gives goodness

Ghee: gives the strength to gain victory

Water: purifies mind and soul

Honey: blesses the devotee with melodious voice

Yogurt: provides happiness of progeny and gives prosperity

Sugar: grants overall happiness

On this Masik Shivratri, wish your near and dear ones with our collection of Shivratri SMS

Mahashivratri Fast

Mahashivratri fast begins in the morning after offering prayers to the Lord. As per the rituals, the observer refrains from consuming any food item and depends on intake of water only. Partial observers depend on fruits, milk and nuts. Sleeping on the day and night of Shivratri is also avoided by the observer and entire day is spent in: worshiping, reciting the Mantras, singing and listening to Lord’s songs. It is said that during the night, all the sins and mistakes of the observer are washed off and he/she gets the blessings and grace of Shiva.

Appease Shiva With Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra

The most powerful Mantra to reach out to Lord Shiva is the ‘Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra’ or the ‘Tryambakam Mantra’.

To learn the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra as well as its meaning, legend, and the way to chant the Mantra, please click here - Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra